BUFFALO, NY - Buffalo State President Aaron Podolefsky, who was currently on sick leave, is officially stepping down as President at the end of July.

Podolefsky made the announcement Monday in a letter to the Buffalo State community.

Podolefsky, who is being treated for prostate cancer, wants to focus on his health.

"In what has been a personally challenging and arduous journey, I've given long, thoughtful consideration to the next step on this life path and have concluded that my overall well-being and quality of life must be my first priority," Podolefsky said in an e-mail message to Buffalo State faculty, staff, and students. "Therefore, I share with you the news that I've notified SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher that I will be stepping down as president of Buffalo State, effective July 31."

Podolefsky added, "Serving as Buffalo State's president has been one of the greatest privileges in my professional life in public higher education. It's been an honor to work with such dedicated, talented and remarkable faculty and staff. From the first time I set foot on campus, I have felt at home and welcomed by this community. (My wife) Ronnie and I will always be grateful for our time in the Buffalo State family."

A search for a new president will begin this fall. Howard Cohen, chancellor emeritus of Purdue University Calumet, will serve as Buffalo State's interim president during the 2013-14 academic year.